October 14, 1939 – November 5, 2022

Elsie Shygera of Medicine Hat, AB, formerly of Gouldtown, SK, passed away on November 5th, 2022, at the age of 83 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Barb Petelle, Myrna (Michael) Stark; sons Michael (Janet) Shygera, Kevin (Tracy) Shygera; grandchildren, Nicholas Petelle, Matthew Stark, Nathan Stark, Zachary Stark, Joshua Stark, Dawson Shygera, Tyler Shygera, Trinity Shygera, and Gabriel Shygera; great-grandchild, Sophia Petelle; sisters, Alma (Alvin) Schapansky, Louella (Derrick) Henry; and numerous nieces and nephews. Elsie was predeceased by her husband, Jerry Shygera; grandson, Joel Petelle; and brother, Edward Dueck.

Elsie was born in Gouldtown, SK to Abe & Justina Dueck on October 14, 1939. She loved and attended school in Gouldtown, SK. In her youth, she worked in the Gouldtown General Store as a cashier. In 1959, Elsie met the love of her life and married Jerry Shygera, also of Gouldtown. There they purchased a farm and raised 4 children. For many years, Elsie drove the school bus, alongside her husband, as a relief driver. She was always busy on their farm gardening, cooking, baking, entertaining, and running meals out to the field, which was always the highlight of the day. Elsie loved to sing in her church choir, she taught Sunday school and enjoyed being involved in church events with her ladies’ group. Elsie and Jerry loved to travel and especially enjoyed vacationing in Hawaii. One of her most exciting journeys was to Alaska, with a caravan of friends, pulling a camper trailer and seeing Canada’s north.

Elsie started working at the Herbert Nursing Home as the kids became older and worked there for approximately 20 years. After Jerry passed away, Elsie stayed on the farm for another two years when she then sold the farm and moved to Medicine Hat to be closer to her children. Immediately, Elsie became involved in Hillcrest Church in Medicine Hat and again became involved in the activities of her church including bible study groups coming to her home, volunteering with the bulletins, and as a church greeter. Elsie had many great neighbours whom she loved to visit with outside on her sundeck, admiring her flower garden. Elsie was an involved grandmother; with her grandson’s sporting activities, awards events, graduations, or joining the family for dinners. Elsie completely enjoyed watching her grandson’s activities whether it was BMX biking, hockey or playing baseball. Elsie could be seen in the stands cheering them on. She always had a smile for everyone and was one the kindest ladies you could ever meet.

The funeral service will be held at Hillcrest Church on Thursday, November 10th at 2PM with Pastor Steve Pahl officiating. Interment will take place prior to the funeral service in Herbert, SK. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so on Wednesday, November 9th, from 6-8PM at Grace Memorial.

A special thanks to all that helped Elsie during her time at the hospice. The medical team was wonderful, and many family and friends offered unwavering encouragement.

Donations in Elsie’s memory may be made to Hillcrest Church - 3785 13 Ave SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1J2.

Condolences may be made at www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are made by GRACE MEMORIAL AFFORDABLE BURIAL & CREMATION 1924 10th Ave NW, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1C 1T5 403-905-0440 info@gracememorial.com.